1bunch broccoli floretsstalks removed, cut into 1-inch pieces
12ouncespenne pasta
2tablespoonsolive oil
1medium onionminced
6medium garlic clovesfinely minced
1tablespoonfresh thyme leaves
1/4cupall-purpose flour
2cupslow-sodium chicken broth
1cup1% milk
1/2teaspoonsalt
1/2teaspoonpepper
1 1/2poundsboneless skinless chicken breastsabout 3, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces
3ouncessmoked goudashredded
8ouncejar oil-packed julienne or chopped sun-dried tomatoesdrained
Instructions
In a small bowl, toss together the bread crumbs and butter and set aside. Spray a 9X13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and preheat the oven to 400 F.
In a large stock pot, bring the water for the pasta to a boil. Stir in one tablespoon salt and the broccoli. Cook the broccoli for 1 minute, it will be bright green. Remove the broccoli with a slotted spoon to a plate. Return the water to a boil and add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Set aside.
In a large saute pan heat remaining olive oil over medium flame. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the flour, salt and pepper, and cook, stirring constantly, until golden, about 1 minute. Whisk in the broth and milk then add the fresh thyme leaves. Simmer, whisking often. Add chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and smoked gouda.
Add the prepared penne pasta and broccoli to the sauce; stir to combine (use a separate bowl if you need the room). Transfer to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the bread crumb topping. Bake until bubbly and crumbs are golden, about 15 minutes. Serve immediately.
Notes
Saturated fat: 4.8 g Unsaturated fat: 5.1 g Carbohydrates: 49.6 g Sugar: 6.5 g Fiber: 6.8 g Protein: 33.5 g Cholesterol: 57.4 mg